Best Diner '98

Best Diner

Grill
100 E. Congress St.

READERS' PICK: Just three short years ago, Congress Street's Grill was in a state of cigarette-stained disrepair. Under the energetic leadership of downtown advocate James Graham, the once seedy place has prospered without losing a bit of its charm. In fact, it looks better than ever swathed in royal blue, with requisite shiny chrome (and lots of it!), and the not-so-requisite but definitely eye-catching red neon chicken greeting patrons from the central aisle of the counter seating. Additional seating in the curvaceous, red lounge affords a quiet counterpoint to the bustling late-night scene. For the true diner experience, Grill offers top-sirloin burgers, genuine shoestring French fries, and thick, creamy milkshakes, among other comfort foods (like meatloaf and mashed potatoes with mushroom gravy).

READERS' POLL RUNNER-UP: This place is so contrived, it's ridiculous. But that's part of its appeal. You willingly suspend disbelief when you walk through the doors into this '50s-styled diner, plunk yourself down in a booth, and order a double-cheeseburger with lots of fries. Now, if you've ever said the word "gourmand" out loud, or if you're one of those concerned that salt causes high blood pressure, stay away. This is fun food, and you're not fun if you don't embrace the cholesterol wholeheartedly (so to speak). Burgers, shakes, chicken, fries, and a swingin' '50s and '60s soundtrack (provided by table-top jukebox outlets) make 5 & Diner too hip, Daddy-O. Two locations: 4330 E. Broadway Blvd., 4520 N. Stone Ave.

1997 Winner: 5 & Diner
1996 Winner: Little Anthony's Diner
1995 Winner: Little Anthony's Diner